Citizens kick as Abiodun’s promised road construction deadline elapses

A social accountability initiative focused on the tracking of progress of the implementation of government projects, has called out Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State to fulfill his promise to begin construction of Alagbole-Ayawoele-Ajuwon and Akute Roads.

Promise Ring, a Digital Democracy Initiative, implemented by CIVICUS is an initiative of AdvoKC Foundation’s Promise Tracker’ for states, which tracks, reminds, and advocates for promises made by state governors to be kept, has notified that the deadlines set by the Ogun State Governor Abiodun to begin active construction on Alagbole-Ayawoele-Ajuwon and Akute Roads have elapsed.

On July 8, 2024, prompted by widespread outcry from Ogun State residents about the deplorable state of roads in the state, Governor Dapo Abiodun visited the Alagbole-Ayawoele-Ajuwon and Akute Roads to witness firsthand their plight.

The governor declared that the roads would see active construction within three weeks.

According to Olatunde, “We have set a firm two-week deadline for the completion of the Denro-Ishasi Road project, and within two weeks, maximum three weeks, there will be active construction along Alagbole-Ayawoele-Ajuwon and Akute roads.”

Despite the contract for the construction of the Alagbole-Ayawoele-Ajuwon Road being awarded, as confirmed by the governor on his social media platforms, the project tracking effort of AdvoKC revealed that work has yet to start on these roads, and the “maximum three weeks” deadline has elapsed.

“It should be noted that the Alagbole-Ayawoele-Ajuwon and Akute roads are very important, as they are used by travellers to neighboring states as well as traders.

“Additionally, the governor has promised to fix these roads several times but has repeatedly broken those promises.

The promises on constructing good roads in the community date back to 1984,” Olatunde Dare, Head of the Promise Ring project said.

some residents have accused the government of paying lip service to their several complaints, as even one resident said he promised to complete the road by January 16 last year.

The governor’s latest promise brought another beacon of hope for many who have endured the challenges posed by these neglected roads for long.

Residents and commuters in the region are growing increasingly concerned and frustrated by the lack of visible progress. The dilapidated state of these roads have continued to cause significant inconvenience, affecting daily commutes, economic activities, and overall quality of life.

“We, therefore, urge Governor Dapo Abiodun to prioritize the welfare of Ogun State people and demonstrate his commitment to good governance by taking immediate steps to ensure that the promised ‘active construction along Alagbole-Ayawoele-Ajuwon and Akute roads’ begins without further delay,” Olatunde said.